Kodungalloor priest accused of sexually abusing 14-year-old during rituals

A temple priest has been taken into custody for allegedly sexually abusing a minor girl under the guise of conducting religious rituals in Kodungalloor, police said on Friday.

The accused, identified as 48-year-old Shaji, is a resident of Edavilangu near Kodungalloor. According to investigators, Shaji was known for performing rituals at a local temple, claiming to help devotees overcome personal difficulties.

Police said the alleged abuse occurred last year when Shaji was conducting rituals for the 14-year-old girl. The matter surfaced recently after the teenager confided in a relative, reportedly refusing to participate in another ceremony led by the priest.

Following a complaint lodged by the girl’s parents, Kodungalloor police registered a case on Thursday under provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Officials confirmed that Shaji was picked up from his residence and is currently being questioned. Police indicated that his formal arrest will be recorded after the interrogation, and he will subsequently be produced before a court as part of the remand process. Further investigation is underway.